Police continuecrackdown on drug cultivation, trafficking, illicit properties
SRINAGAR: In a significant crackdown against the drug menace across Jammu and Kashmir, police authorities have launched a series of coordinated operations targeting illicit narcotics cultivation, trafficking networks, and illegal properties associated with drug trade. Over the past few weeks, these efforts have yielded substantial progress, underscoring the region’s unwavering commitment to eradicating drug-related crimes and fostering a safer, healthier society.
Massive Anti-Drug Operations in Baramulla, Handwara, and Shopian
In one of the most extensive operations, police in Baramulla, Handwara, and Shopian districts intensified their crackdown on illegal poppy cultivation. Acting on credible intelligence, authorities uncovered and destroyed large quantities of illicit poppy crops in multiple locations, registering cases and seizing samples for further investigation.
In Baramulla, police raided land in the Pinjoora area belonging to Bashir Ahmad Malik, where illegal poppy cultivation was identified. Following legal procedures, FIR No. 53/2026 was registered, and the crops were destroyed in the presence of a magistrate, with officials from the Excise, Revenue, and Agriculture Departments assisting in the operation. Similar actions were taken in Handwara’s Pohrupeth area, where a joint team raided land owned by Jehangir Ahmad Dar, destroying poppy crops and sealing samples for evidence. FIR No. 86/2026 has been registered in this case. In Shopian, police teams continued their sustained drive, destroying illicit poppy cultivation on land belonging to Khazir Mohd Bhat, with FIR No. 74/2026 registered against the offenders.
These operations exemplify the police’s zero-tolerance approach towards drug cultivation and trafficking. Officials have emphasized their resolve to eliminate the drug trade at its roots and have called upon the public to cooperate by providing credible information.
Progress in Narcotics Seizures and Arrests in Anantnag
In Anantnag district, police have made remarkable strides in their ongoing campaign against drug trafficking, registering 153 cases and arresting 147 accused persons within the first four months of 2026. The seizures include over 372 kilograms of contraband, such as cannabis powder, ganja, charas, poppy straw, brown sugar, and heroin, with an estimated market value of approximately ₹48.2 lakh.
In addition to seizures, police destroyed illegal narcotic crops spanning around 190 marlas of land, effectively curbing the supply chain. During operations, 21 vehicles linked to drug trafficking were seized, and legal actions led to the cancellation of 10 registration certificates and 9 driving licenses. The district also saw the demolition of illegal drug-related structures, including three restaurants allegedly linked to drug peddlers.
Targeted Action Against Illicit Properties
The police have also intensified their efforts to dismantle the financial infrastructure supporting the drug trade. In Baramulla, authorities confirmed the freezing of properties belonging to Habil Yaseen Dar from Tarhama Kunzer, linked to FIR No. 16/2025, which involved the recovery of heroin. The property was seized under the NDPS Act after a legal process confirmed its acquisition through proceeds of drug trafficking. Similarly, in Shopian, a double-storey residential house valued at over ₹20 lakh, belonging to Ali Mohd Bhat, was attached as part of the investigation into drug-related proceeds.
Regulatory Actions and Public Awareness Campaigns
To combat misuse of pharmaceutical substances, police in Baramulla, in coordination with the Drug Department, sealed two medical shops for violations—one operating without a license and another for failing to adhere to prescribed SOPs. Such measures aim to prevent the misuse of controlled drugs and ensure compliance with legal standards.
Further strengthening community engagement, police organized a motorcycle rally at Uri under the “Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan” campaign. Around 50 motorcyclists, along with police personnel and residents, participated in the event, raising slogans against drug abuse and promoting a collective stand against addiction.
Urging Public Cooperation and Community Participation
In Ganderbal, police conducted a urine drug screening drive to identify substance abuse early, focusing on timely intervention and rehabilitation. Meanwhile, in Shopian, authorities issued a public notice seeking assistance to locate an absconding accused involved in an NDPS case, emphasizing the importance of community participation in the fight against drugs.
Continued Operations in Pulwama
Pulwama district remained active in its anti-drug efforts, conducting district-wide searches, cordon and search operations, and destruction of illegal cultivation. A notable operation was launched at Okhoo, where a CASO led to searches of suspected hideouts. The police also destroyed illicit poppy and bhang cultivation sites, and intensified vehicle checks to prevent trafficking. Community awareness rallies, conducted in Lelhar, further reinforced the message against drug abuse.
These concerted efforts by Jammu and Kashmir police demonstrate their relentless commitment to combating the drug crisis. From destroying illegal crops and seizing contraband to freezing assets and raising awareness, authorities are systematically dismantling drug networks. They have urged citizens to come forward with credible information to bolster these initiatives, emphasizing that collective action is essential to build a drug-free society. With ongoing operations and community involvement, the region aims to turn the tide against narcotics and foster a safer, healthier future for its residents.